However, discard the desire (kama) and material wealth (artha) if contrary to Dharma; as also, any usage or custom or rules regarded as source of Dharma if at any time they were to lead to unhappiness or arouse people's indignation.
Manu Smriti 4.176
Manu Smriti 4.176
THIS DOES NOT, in any way, mean that one is free to make up his own notions of dharma, nor does it mean that one should change dharma if they don't like it.
What it actually means is what the commentator Medhātithi says:
"Or, again (one should avoid), such acts as are ‘disapproved by the people,’ as being blameworthy...."
"Or, again (one should avoid), such acts as are ‘disapproved by the people,’ as being blameworthy...."
What this means is that you are not obligated to carry out an optional karma in the Vedas if the ordinary people don't like it and if they will hurt you or tarnish your reputation if you do carry it out.
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